FM: Heightened diplomatic activities at political and economic level in 2012

2012 will be an exceptionally intensive year with respect to diplomacy with a great number of activities and engagements of the entire diplomatic network, said Foreign Minister Nikola Poposki, who is chairing the Ambassadorial Council on Wednesday and Thursday.

Ambassadors were given directions, Poposki informed, how to organise political and economic activities with an emphasis to be more engaged in attracting foreign investments. He noted that an excellent opportunity had been opened after obtaining three consecutive positive progress reports by the European Commission and with the judgement of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Asked to comment the name dispute with Greece, the FM highlighted Macedonia's constructive role throughout the process.

"The Republic of Macedonia fails to show non-constructiveness in its approach. It is our policy and mirror. It's up to the Republic of Greece to recognise the effort and to promote a positive stance focusing first and foremost on the strategic interest of the region. It is a fact that the country is facing serious economic challenges at home, but it shouldn't in any way avoid meeting the strategic goal of the region - Macedonia's integration to EU and NATO. Our actions and approach towards the issue are constructive and well-intentioned in order to give an added value for the two countries and the entire region. The concept of ignoring Macedonia's stance needs to be avoided," FM Poposki stated.

On Wednesday, the ambassadors will meet with President Gjorge Ivanov, Parliament Speaker Trajko Veljanoski and with PM Nikola Gruevski.